This graduate seminar serves as an introduction to the methodologies and theoretical approaches for the ethnography of sound and musical practices. While we center on research problems, ethics, and methods in the field of ethnomusicology, ethnographic field research on sound and sounding has long been an interdisciplinary venture. We will additionally draw on performance studies, critical ethnography, anthropology, and critical race and gender studies to broaden our exposure to diverse methods and approaches. Throughout the seminar, we will pay close attention to the multiple ethical implications of crafting ethnographies about musicians, music-making, sound, performance, and listening practices.
3-5 units · Letter or Credit/No Credit
This graduate seminar serves as an introduction to the methodologies and theoretical approaches for the ethnography of sound and musical practices. While we center on research problems, ethics, and methods in the field of ethnomusicology, ethnographic field research on sound and sounding has long been an interdisciplinary venture. We will additionally draw on performance studies, critical ethnography, anthropology, and critical race and gender studies to broaden our exposure to diverse methods and approaches. Throughout the seminar, we will pay close attention to the multiple ethical implications of crafting ethnographies about musicians, music-making, sound, performance, and listening practices.
Offered in Winter 2027 at Stanford University.